Introducing Dr. Andrew Crookes!

We’re absolutely thrilled to introduce you to the newest addition to our Sooke Veterinary Hospital family, Dr. Andrew Crookes. With a profound passion for reptiles, amphibians, and all creatures furry, feathered, or scaled, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from his studies at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon. His focus on community-centred care and creating a stress-free environment aligns seamlessly with our core values.

Andrew’s journey began with an unwavering love for animals, especially the unique world of reptiles and amphibians. Inspired by the legendary Steve Irwin, he spent his early days exploring the Okanagan Valley, on the hunt for snakes and lizards. His passion grew even stronger during his globetrotting adventures, particularly across the vast landscapes of Australia and the wild savannahs of South Africa.

Andrew is truly excited about our community-focused approach to pet care here at Sooke Veterinary Hospital. He shares our commitment to cultivating a warm and inviting atmosphere, not just for our team but for all the clients who walk through our doors. Strengthening the bonds between our staff and clients enhances the overall veterinary experience, and this is something Andrew holds dear.

During his final clinical year, Andrew had the privilege of caring for a magnificent Komodo Dragon at the Calgary Zoo, tending to a Common Snapping Turtle with a gunshot wound at the Wildlife Center of Virginia, and participating in a low-cost, remote clinic in Northern La Ronge Saskatchewan. These experiences have further ignited his passion for exotic animal medicine and a strong commitment to community-focused care. We'll have him up and running a new branch of Sooke Vet as soon as we can!

As Andrew becomes a member of the Sooke Veterinary Hospital team, he’s steadfast in his commitment to establishing an exotics-focused aspect within our practice. He is excited at the prospects of introducing alternative forms of care, such as a mobile practice component, to better serve our community’s beloved pets. Driven by a growth mindset, he aims to uphold our commitment to quality while expanding our services to meet diverse needs. Coming soon! 

Andrew firmly believes in building deep relationships with clients through active listening and providing services that resonate with their pets’ unique needs. His personal experiences with anxious or debilitated animals through his pets drive him to elevate the human-animal bond for all.

With his two feline friends, Captain Ahab and Lizzie, a canine companion named Merida, and a special Eastern Box Turtle named Panzer, Andrew deeply comprehends the significance of offering exceptional care. His pets have taught him the value of consistent care and the importance of respecting pet owners’ insights about their beloved companions.

When he’s not immersed in the clinic, Andrew finds solace in outdoor pursuits such as surfing, hiking, photography, and bird-watching. He’s also enthusiastic about delving into the realms of mobile practice and telemedicine, seeking creative ways to extend veterinary care beyond our clinic’s physical boundaries.

Andrew’s excitement for animals, dedication to community-centred care, and commitment to nurturing an exceptional exotics-focused practice makes him an invaluable asset to the Sooke Veterinary Hospital team. With his passion for innovative approaches in veterinary medicine, we’re confident that Dr. Crookes will continue to positively impact the lives of pets and their owners in the Sooke community, strengthening the profound bond between humans and their cherished animal companions.

A Message from Dr. Crookes

I’m absolutely thrilled to embark on this journey with the Sooke Veterinary Hospital team! As a recent graduate, finding a supportive, compassionate team to guide me in my early career is paramount. I feel truly fortunate, as Dr. Lambert and her team epitomize these qualities and more. I eagerly anticipate getting to know each of you in the upcoming months and delivering the level of care that Sooke Veterinary Hospital is renowned for. I’m excited to be a part of the clinic’s exploration of new and refined ways to provide care to our cherished pet community!